your future
FURTHER EDUCATION PROSPECTUS
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Contents Welcome
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Application process
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Why join us?
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Levels of study
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Open days
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GCSE English & maths
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Our campus
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Apprenticeships
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Getting to college
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Explore our subjects
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Travel bursary
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Parents & carers
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Fees & funding
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Professional short courses
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Student life
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What’s next?
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Halls of residence
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Study programmes
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Welcome
to Shuttleworth College Deciding what to do after your GCSEs is a big step, and it’s one that should feel exciting, not overwhelming. At Shuttleworth College, we’re here to support you every step of the way as you take your next big leap towards your future. Whether you already know where you’re headed or you’re still exploring your options, this prospectus is designed to help you discover what’s possible and what’s right for you.
Your future starts here From our great facilities to strong employer links and career-focused programmes, everything we do is about helping you succeed. Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you take that next step and make it count. We can’t wait to welcome you to Shuttleworth College.
Scan the QR code to
view our location map shuttleworth.ac.uk
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Why join us? Wide range of subjects
Learn from the experts
Our vast range of study programmes and apprenticeships ensure you will find a career pathway you love, opening up more choices, opportunities and experiences.
Many of our tutors work, or have worked, in the industry they teach – what better way to learn about the real working world than from people who have experienced it.
Fantastic facilities
Personalised support
We offer a variety of attractions, including a working farm, lakes and woodland, an equestrian centre, a walled garden, and a Zoological Education Centre.
You will be individually assisted and supported throughout your college experience.
Work experience
Guaranteed progression
Participate in the perfect work placement for you thanks to our links with hundreds of top employers. This real-life, on-the-job experience will enhance your CV and prepare you for employment.
All full-time students have the opportunity to progress through our levels from Level 1 up to degree level, supporting your development every step of the way.*
Fantastic education Ofsted rates us ‘Good’, so you’ll receive a high-quality education to support your success.
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*Subject to terms and conditions.
Discover your future at an
Open day Your next step after school is an important one. Visiting an open day is the best way to explore your options and see what life at Shuttleworth College is really like. Whether you're considering a full-time study programme, an apprenticeship or just want to find out more, an open day is the perfect place to start. What to expect: • Explore the campus • Meet the tutors • Talk to current students • Find the right study programme • Apply on the day
Upcoming Open days Saturday 17 October 2026 10:00am to 1:00pm Saturday 23 January 2027 10:00am to 1:00pm Thursday 13 May 2027 5:00pm to 7:00pm
Scan the QR code to
register for an Open day
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Our campus Shuttleworth College is a specialist land-based college offering programmes in Agricultural, Horticultural and Land-based Studies, as well as Animal Sciences, Equine, Outdoor Education and Uniformed Services. We’re confident you will find something you love here at Shuttleworth College.
Take our virtual tour Scan the QR code
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Old Warden Park, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire SG18 9DX
Commitment to sustainability Kingshill Farm is a net zero carbon building, achieved by implementing fabric-first solutions, air source heat pumps and on-site generation through solar PV panels. The works were co-funded through the T Level fund.
Our facilities Kingshill Farm
Kingshill Farm is our 166-hectare working farm and estate, providing students with a hands-on learning environment. Students gain practical experience across agriculture, including crop production, livestock management and farming practices. The farm is home to a pedigree herd of Red Poll cattle and lambs over 300 ewes each year.
L akes, Reservoirs and Bush Craft
We also have an on-site lake and reservoir, a bushcraft woodland area and open fields.
LRC
Our LRC is the perfect place to study outside of classes, with spaces for both individual and group study and over 30,000 resources. You can access PCs or make use of our free WiFi to support your studies, whether you’re working independently or collaborating with others.
Mechanisation Centre
The Mechanisation Centre provides a dedicated training environment for aviation apprenticeships and floristry, offering industry-focused facilities and hands-on learning opportunities. Students develop practical skills using specialist equipment and gain valuable experience in a professional setting, preparing them for successful careers in their chosen industry.
Mount Pleasant Equine Centre
Our fantastic equine facilities at Mount Pleasant are equipped with covered stabling, two indoor arenas, classrooms and a student common room.
Munch & Mocha
Our restaurant and coffee shop are the ideal place to discuss your last class over a coffee or enjoy a delicious lunch with friends.
Walled Garden
Our Walled Garden boasts two polytunnels, a fruit cage, propagation benches and a large garden area for practising horticultural tasks such as landscaping, growing plants and plant maintenance.
oodland, Parks and W Conservation Area
Our Shuttleworth campus is located in a large conservation area of about 500 acres with vast areas of parkland.
Z oological Education Centre Our £4 million Zoological Education Centre (ZEC) is home to a state-of-the-art tropical biosphere habitat, featuring an immersive tropical biome, fascinating species from across the globe and cutting-edge teaching facilities. Designed to inspire the next generation of conservationists and scientists, the ZEC offers hands-on learning experiences in a truly unique environment.
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Getting to college We have great transport links to our Shuttleworth College campus, provide a subsidised bus service and help with travel costs for those who need it.
Bus
We provide a part-subsidised college-run bus service from local towns and villages in the surrounding area, depending on demand. In 2026/27, the cost was £100 per year with a bursary or £925 if you do not qualify for a bursary. These costs are subject to review and can change. You can find out more travel information in Student Services or by scanning the following QR code.
Worried about travel costs? Scan the QR code
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Car
We are located just off the A1 with easy access from Bedford, Biggleswade, Sandy, St Neots, Hitchin and Stevenage. There is plenty of free car parking on-site.
Train Biggleswade station is just ten minutes away using our college bus or via taxi. The station is served twice-hourly by the Peterborough to London Kings Cross Northern line, stopping at nearby towns.
Travel bursary Full-time students aged 16-18 and living more than three miles from college may be eligible to subsidised travel from their local authority. If your local authority is unable to help, and you have a household income less than £42,500, the college has a Travel Bursary worth up to £770 which you may qualify for. Aged 19 or over with a household income of £45,000 or less? If you’re not eligible for other transport support and have applied for an eligible study programme, you may also qualify for the Travel Bursary if you live more than three walking miles from college.
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Fees & funding For school leavers aged 16-18 on 31 August 2027, eligible study programmes are free.* Other financial support
Student support
You may have to pay for specialist textbooks, uniforms or equipment, as well as trips and visits that boost your understanding of your subject. You can find out if there are any additional costs by viewing your study programme on our website.
Speak to our Customer Contact Team: 0345 658 8990
A range of financial support packages are available, which include help with essential costs, travel and meals. Visit our website & search: Student Support
*Subject to terms and conditions.
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Worried about course costs? Scan the QR code
*Subject to terms and conditions.
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Student life College life is more than your course Whether you’re making new friends, joining clubs, having your voice heard or developing skills for your future, our L.I.V.E. programme helps you get the most from your time at college. It’s your opportunity to enjoy a richer student experience and become part of our vibrant college community.
Lifestyle Find your people. Look after yourself. Feel at home. College is about more than studying. Our lifestyle activities help you settle in, make friends and access the support you need to thrive. You can enjoy: • mental health and wellbeing support
Involvement Get involved. Gain experience. Build your CV. There’s always something happening at college. Whether you’re helping at Open Days, fundraising, volunteering or becoming a Student Ambassador, you’ll develop confidence, teamwork and leadership skills that employers and universities value. Opportunities include: • Student Ambassador programme • volunteering • charity fundraising • awareness campaigns • college events • clubs and lunchtime activities Every experience helps you grow.
• student interest groups • equality and diversity celebrations • student discounts • freshers’ activities • health and wellbeing events 12 shuttleworth.ac.uk
Find out more about student life at college Scan the QR code
Voice
Enhancement
Your opinion matters. Every student has the opportunity to shape college life. Share ideas, suggest improvements and represent your classmates through Student Voice.
Take learning beyond the classroom. Enhancement activities help you discover new interests, gain valuable experiences and prepare for your future.
Ways to get involved include:
Look forward to:
• course representatives
• educational trips and visits
• student leaders
• guest speakers
• student boards
• employer experiences
• student surveys
• competitions
• students’ union
• workshops
Together, we create a college experience that works for everyone.
• personal development opportunities These experiences help you build confidence, broaden your horizons and stand out when applying for university or employment.
LIVE your best college experience Discover more than a qualification. Discover your future.
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Equality
Careers guidance
At our college, we celebrate diversity, promote equality and ensure that everyone feels respected, included and supported to achieve their full potential.
Our professionally qualified Student Advisers provide impartial, confidential careers advice and guidance to help you:
Safeguarding and wellbeing We are committed to providing a safe, inclusive and supportive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to achieve their full potential. Our dedicated Safeguarding and Wellbeing teams offer advice, guidance and support throughout the college day. Our specialist Mental Health and Wellbeing Practitioners provide confidential, person-centred support, working closely with our Safeguarding Team and external services to ensure students can access the help they need. Through education and awareness, we empower students to make informed decisions, build healthy relationships, stay safe and know where to turn for support.
Additional Support We have specialist support staff for those with an identified learning difficulty and/or disability. You can contact the Additional Learning Support team by emailing ALSteam@bedford.ac.uk
Find out more about our college Scan the QR code
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• decide what you are going to do next • find out more about your options in education, training and work, both at college and beyond • get support with job searches and with your university application (UCAS) If you are looking for information or have a quick query, you can drop into campus where a Student Adviser will be able to help you.
The Students’ Union The Students’ Union works in partnership with the college, striving for outstanding teaching, learning, services and facilities. To find out more, speak to our Student Engagement team.
Financial advice
If you have any questions about financial support while studying with us, our dedicated support teams are here to help. They can provide advice on college-related funding, including bursaries and grants that may be available to you.
TOTUM card
student discount
As a student at our college you are also entitled to purchase a TOTUM card. This gives you access to over 250 student discounts and now acts as an official proof of age ID. Some local shops and stores that offer student discount will accept your student card as proof of student status. You can join by visiting www.totum.com
NUS Affiliation As a student with us, you are part of the National Union of Students which means you can access exclusive discounts, offers and opportunities available to members across the UK.
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Halls of residence Independent living in a supportive community Our newly refurbished Halls of Residence offer a welcoming and secure environment—a perfect stepping stone to independent living. Many of our students say the friends they make in halls become like a second family, creating lasting memories and friendships for life. Spaces fill up quickly, so we encourage you to apply early if you’re considering living on campus. Priority is given to students who live more than three miles from our designated bus stops.
Why choose our halls? • Located on a self-contained campus within the beautiful grounds of Shuttleworth College • Newly refurbished rooms designed for comfort and convenience • Five residential halls separated by age and gender • Single study bedrooms, each with access to a modern common room featuring: - Kitchen facilities - Dining area - Comfy seating and TV - On-site launderette
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• 24/7 support from the Residential and Safeguarding teams including out of hours coverage • Three meals a day, five days a week from our on-site restaurant and coffee shop, Munch & Mocha
Being a residential student at Shuttleworth College feels like living in a second home. It’s where I’ve grown, made amazing friends and really started to discover who I am. Jaydn, Halls of Residence student
Scan for more information on accommodation If you are on one of our full-time programmes you can apply for a residential bursary which can help with meeting accommodation costs. Details of this scheme are available from Student Services on 01767 626232 or visit: www.bedfordcollegegroup.ac.uk/halls-of-residence shuttleworth.ac.uk
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Application process Your future starts here
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Shortlist your favourite study programmes Visit our website for the full list of our study programmes.
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Start your study programme!
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Start of term
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Enrolment
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GCSE results day
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Attend your Discovery Day
Open Days Attend one of our Open Days to find out more about our campuses and study programmes. Book your place on our website.
Apply online Apply for your chosen study programme. If you do not have access to a computer you can contact us for help with your application.
Receive an offer We will arrange an interview or information, advice and guidance session with you so you can find out more about your course. You will have the opportunity to chat with a tutor who will make you an offer.
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Term starts in September.
Join your classmates in September and get ready for your course. Find out where you need to go, meet your tutors and classmates and get everything you need before your full-time studies begin.
You will be invited to enrol on to your study programme.
Thursday 19 August 2027 Good luck! Don’t worry if you don’t get your grades, you can get advice at our GCSE Advice Day.
You will be invited to attend a Discovery Day in June 2027 where you will get a taste of college life, meet your tutors and make new friends.
Levels of study Whether you’re just getting started or ready to take your learning to the next level, we offer study programmes from Level 1 to Level 3 and beyond, designed to help you build your skills, develop higher-level knowledge and prepare for your future.
Level 1
Typical equivalent: Entry-level GCSE (below grade 3)
A great starting point Perfect if you're looking to boost your confidence and develop core skills in a supportive environment. You’ll explore your chosen subject and get ready to move on to the next stage.
What’s next? Move on to a Level 2 study programme in your subject area.
Level 2
Typical equivalent: GCSEs at grades 9–4
Build your knowledge and confidence This level gives you a solid understanding of your subject and helps prepare you for more advanced study. You can also work on your English and maths if needed.
What’s next? Progress to a Level 3 study programme, like a Diploma, T Level or an Advanced Apprenticeship.
Level 3
Typical equivalent: A levels
Get ready for what comes next Study your subject in depth and gain the skills and experience you need for university, an apprenticeship or a job. At this level, you can choose from: • Diplomas - focused study programmes that develop both practical and academic skills • Advanced Apprenticeships - learn while you work and earn • T Levels - a new qualification combining 80% classroom learning with 20% industry placement, designed with employers to help you develop real, career-ready skills T Levels are ideal if you want a hands-on experience in areas like Digital, Health, Education or Construction. They’re equivalent to three A levels and open doors to university, higher apprenticeships or straight into work.
Take your skills further Progress to advanced study, higher-level apprenticeships or university and gain the expertise you need for your future career.
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GCSE English & maths programme
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Are you ready to unlock your potential and secure your future with essential English & maths skills? The course is divided into two streams to cater to different entry levels and focuses on both academic and work-based skills.
Streams: Stream A (Grade 3 on entry): Focus: This stream is more examoriented, helping students to improve their understanding and performance in GCSE English and maths exams.
All students who did not achieve at least a grade 4 in GCSE English and/ or maths will be enrolled onto our GCSE programme. This programme is designed for students aged 16-19 who need to build their English and maths skills and gain at least one grade up from their qualification on entry.
Basic skills provided: English Skills • Reading: Understanding and interpreting various texts. • Writing: Crafting clear and coherent documents, emails and reports. • Speaking: Effective verbal communication and presentation skills.
Content: Exam preparation, practice papers and targeted revision sessions.
• Listening: Active listening and comprehension in different contexts.
Stream B (Grade 2 and below on Entry):
• Critical Thinking: Analysing and evaluating information critically.
Focus: This stream emphasises basic industry-relevant skills, preparing students for the workplace. Content: Practical English skills, such as communication, report writing and comprehension, tailored to industry needs. Practical maths skills, such as problem-solving with number, data and shape, tailored to industry needs. Importance of English & maths skills in all industries and daily life: English & maths are essential to both further study and future employment. Both of these focus on a range of skills from communication and analysis to problem-solving and critical thinking.
Maths Skills • Number: Understanding and interpreting money, negative numbers, and converting between fractions, percentages and decimals. • Ratio and proportion: Applying these to real-life scenarios. • Geometry: Problem-solving with area, perimeter and volume. • Statistics: Reading and interpreting data and analysing averages. • Problem-Solving: Using language to identify and solve problems.
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Apprenticeships across The Bedford College Group A first-class way to start your career We work with over 1,000 employers each year and as the largest provider of apprenticeships in the South Midlands, we have the experience to help you excel during your apprenticeship. As an apprentice, you will gain the knowledge, skills and personal qualities needed to obtain the right level of training and competence for a specific job role.
Get in touch! For employer enquiries: training@bedford.ac.uk For more information about becoming an apprentice: apprenticeships@bedford.ac.uk Or give us a call:
01234 291747
At The Bedford College Group, we offer apprenticeships in the following subject areas:
• Aviation
• Hair
• Business & Management
• Horticulture
• Care & Childcare
• Land-Based
• Computing & IT
• Motorsport
• Construction
• Motor Vehicle
• Electrical Installation
• Plumbing & Gas
• Engineering
• Teaching & Education
Find out more about apprenticeships Scan the QR code
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What is an apprenticeship? An apprenticeship is a programme of work-based learning. To be enrolled as an apprentice, an organisation must have offered you a contract of employment and agreed to pay your wage and support you throughout your training. Your job role must include a range of work relevant to the apprenticeship qualification you wish to undertake.
How long does it take? Apprenticeships take between one and four years to complete depending on the type and level undertaken.
How will I spend my time? The part-time study element of an apprenticeship fits around the job commitment and will be agreed with the employer. You might attend college one day per week (day release), or in blocks of a week or more (block release), or 100% work-based delivery.
The benefits You’ll need enthusiasm and commitment to study and work in a particular industry, but the rewards will be significant:
•g et the best of both worlds by earning as you learn •c hoose from a wide range of practical trades and jobs •w e will help you find an employer from our excellent links with hundreds of top employers •g ain industry-recognised qualifications, Functional Skills and specialist techniques that could see you progress to high-level jobs in your chosen sector • l earn from valuable job experience and time spent developing your skills on a day-to-day basis.
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I chose to study Level 3 Animal Management at Shuttleworth because I knew I wanted to work with animals and Shuttleworth had everything I was looking for. I remember falling in love with the Zoological Education Centre (ZEC) the moment I went on my first tour. Gabriel, Animal Management student, previously attended The Highfield School
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Explore our subjects Scan the QR code for our
full subject list
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Information for parents & carers We understand the challenge of navigating choices at this key time, especially when your priority is guiding and supporting your child in making decisions that will shape their education, growth and future success. Got questions about qualifications, careers, finance or support? We’re here to help. Scan the QR code or visit our website & search: Information for Parents/Carers
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Professional short courses Why study a short course at Shuttleworth College? Develop your skills with industryrecognised short courses at Shuttleworth College. From Certificates of Competence to specialist training, our expert-led courses are designed to meet industry demands and are regularly updated to ensure you gain the latest practical skills and knowledge. By choosing a short course with us, you’ll have access to: • experienced trainers with industry expertise
We offer a range of professional short courses across diverse fields, including:
• Arboriculture and Forestry • Floristry • Horticulture (RHS) • Livestock Management • Machinery Operations • Pesticide Application
• state-of-the-art equipment, materials and facilities • hands-on, practical learning experiences • opportunities to advance your skills
Find out more Scan the QR code
• a friendly and supportive team dedicated to your success • free parking on campus for all short course participants Short courses are an excellent way to enhance your career prospects by gaining key skills, contributing to Continued Professional Development (CPD) and achieving competency in your chosen sector.
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What’s next after Level 3? Higher Skills (University-Level) At Shuttleworth College, we offer a range of courses at Level 4 and above, including HNCs, HNDs, Foundation degrees and Top-Ups. Our Higher Skills courses provide the opportunity to gain qualifications, boost career prospects or retrain for work.
Subject available to study: • Animal Science
Scan the QR code to
find out more
Save money by studying closer to home Gain the skills you’ll need to progress in your career Smaller classrooms mean more 1:1 support Learn from industry experienced tutors
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Study Programmes Level 1 Animal Care Land-based
Level 2 Agriculture Animal Care Animal Nursing Equine Care Floristry Outdoor Education Uniformed Services
Level 3 Equine Management Floristry Land & Wildlife Management Outdoor Education Uniformed Services
T Level Animal Management & Behaviour Animal Management & Science Crop & Plant Production Livestock Production Ornamental Horticulture & Landscaping This information is correct at the time of printing but is subject to change. For the latest information please see our website.
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Shuttleworth College Old Warden Park, Biggleswade, Bedfordshire SG18 9DX facebook ShuttleworthCollege instagram @shuttleworthcollege
DISCLAIMER: While every effort is made to ensure that the information within this prospectus is correct at the time of printing, some details may be subject to change. The Bedford College Group reserves the right to make amendments to the study programmes, dates, fees or other details, and to make cancellations or changes if student numbers are insufficient. In the unfortunate situation that we have to cancel a course, we will refund any fees in full, but we regret we are not able to offer any refund if you withdraw from your course or fail to start, and you will be liable to pay any outstanding fees that may be due. 32 shuttleworth.ac.uk